Review + Comparisons: Battle of the Makeup Sponges (BeautyBlender, Real Techniques, Swissco, Sephora, Black Up)

Makeup Sponges

Pros:

• works especially well for those with dry skin (Using a synthetic brush in a buffing motion can cause exfoliation and make your foundation look flakey. Using a sponge in a tapping motion prevents exfoliation and is ideal for those with dry, flakey skin.)
• prevents full coverage foundations from looking cakey (Since sponges sheer out coverage, it makes it more difficult to over apply foundation. Therefore, sponges work well for those with a heavy hand.)
• allows foundation to "melt" into your skin (The method of stippling in conjunction with the moisture from the sponge allows foundation to blend into the skin seamlessly without any lines of demarcation, while leaving an airbrushed finish.)

Cons:

• suppose to be replaced every 1-3 months (Those who take good care of it have been able to make it last for about 6-8 months. I've had brushes that lasted 5+ years. Therefore, those who are on a beauty budget may not find makeup sponges to be economically sound.)
• more product gets absorbed and wasted (I find that sponges soak up more product compared to synthetic brushes.)
• time consuming (Stipping with a sponge requires more time compared to buffing with a synthetic brush. It's also best to use a foundation that doesn't dry as fast to prevent it from applying blotchy or else you'll have to work alot quicker. Also, when using a sponge, I have to apply 2 layers of the MUFE HD foundation in order to get the coverage that I need, while it takes only one layer when using a synthetic brush.)
• emphasize pores (I find that sponges can make my pores appear larger when used in a stippling motion compared to a synthetic buffing brush. To prevent this from happening, you can (1) wear a silicone-based primer (review) underneath or (2) use the sponge in a painting motion on areas where there are visible pores.

I don't find sponges to be superior or inferior to synthetic brushes. Just like everything else in life, there are always pros & cons and trade-offs. This post is meant to be informative and to explain why sponges may or may not be right for you.

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Review + Comparisons: Real Techniques Cheek and Lip Brush Set (Limited Edition)

I usually don't buy sets because there's always a few brushes that I don't need and I already have a huge brush collection that I'm trying to declutter. Real Techniques is one of the few brands that I find myself purchasing sets from because there's usually one brush in there that's worth the price alone, which is why I bought the Cheek and Lip Set. I'm sure you guys can figure out which brush that I'm talking about.

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Overview: Synthetic Buffing Foundation Brushes

A few of my favorite buffing brushes for liquid and cream application are actually from ELF. I didn't include them in this post because I already reviewed them here. (I definitely recommend checking them out because they created the same type of brush in 3 different size and density, which allows them to cater towards a wider audience and different types of preferences. So, I'm sure you'll find the one that's suitable for you.) Also, I reviewed the Real Techniques brushes already, so I won't go into detail about them in this post.

Synthetic buffing brushes are far superior than those made with natural bristles, when using liquid and cream-based products because they don't absorb as much product and blends it into the skin alot easier without streaking. There are so many in the market, ranging in different sizes, shapes, and density. My preference is for those that are not too big or too small so that it can be multi-functional. Also, I like them to be not too dense so it doesn't tug my skin and cause premature wrinkles. Continue reading to find out how these brushes compare to one another!

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Review + Comparison: Real Techniques Sculpting Set vs Sculpting Brush

I already had the Real Techniques Setting Brush that you can buy individually, so I didn't think that I needed the Sculpting Set. I was just going to get the individual Sculpting Brush, but ended up also getting the set just in case if there was any slight differences with the brushes. That just justified my purchases. ^_^ 

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Review + Comparison: Battle of the Flat Paddle Foundation Brushes

Flat paddle synthetic brushes are meant to be used for applying liquid foundation all over the face in a painting motion. I personally prefer to use a buffing brush for applying liquid foundation because it's quicker and buffs the product into my skin easier. When I want an airbrush effect and more coverage without the bristles absorbing lots of product, I opt for a stippling brush. In general, I only use flat paddle synthetic brushes for applying concealer under my eye area and liquid foundation around the small crevices of my nose.

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60 ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation

Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60 ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation
Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation Light Coverage Brush ($45) - This is the thickest of the bunch. I love that the bristles are dense and firm. The size of the head is excellent for face application, but it still fits nicely under the eye area. I just tap the product lightly and it immediately sinks into my skin, providing great coverage without streaking. (It measures 7 inches in total length.)

Chanel #6 Foundation Brush ($45) - The base of the head is thick and firm, while the tip is thin and tapered. I like using it for applying under eye concealer because it doesn't streak and it fits really well under my eye area. As for face application, I prefer the Dior one because it's thicker and slightly bigger. (It measures 6.20 inches in total length.)

Sigma F60 Foundation Brush ($16) - The head is narrower and the tip is thicker compared to the Chanel one. I do notice that if I apply too much product, it's difficult to blend out without streaking, using the Sigma one. (It measures 7.5 inches in total length.)

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version) ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version) ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Royal & Langnickel BX-45 ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation Brush ($5.99) - The head is slightly thicker, denser and narrower than the Chanel one. I have no issues with it streaking and it blends product into the skin effortlessly. This is a total bargain! (It measures 6.30 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Essential Foundation Brush (comes in the Travel Essentials set $17.99) - The head is slightly smaller and denser than the EcoTools one. Out of all of them, the RT one is the one that I reach for the most because it provides excellent coverage without streaking when I apply the product in a tapping motion. (It measures 6.25 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel BX-45 Brush ($15.99) - This is another one that I reach for the most because it offers excellent coverage and it blends the concealer seamlessly with my foundation with barely any effort. The head is the shortest of the bunch and fits perfectly under the eye area. Also, I love how dense and firm it is. I have no complaints about this brush, which is very rare. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 ~ Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 ~ Sigma F60 (Mr. Bunny Kit) ~ Sigma F60

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 ~ Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 ~ Sigma F60 (Mr. Bunny Kit) ~ Sigma F60

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 Brush ($28.99) - The head is the biggest of the bunch and ideal for face application. It doesn't streak when I apply liquid foundation, but the bristles are not as firm as the Dior brush. I prefer the Dior one for face application because it gives me better control. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 Brush (comes in the SILK Synthetic Hair 12 pc Set $119.99) - The bristles are not flimsy and it doesn't streak when I apply liquid products, but it's not as firm as the Sigma F60. When it comes to flat paddle synthetic brushes, I'm all about firmness because I want maximum control. (It measures 7 inches in total length.)

Sigma F60 Foundation Brush (comes in the Mr. Bunny Essential Kit $120) - The bristles are not as firm and the tip is not as pointed as the regular Sigma F60. Also, I have to be careful to not over apply product or else it'll be difficult to blend out without streaking. (It measures 7.5 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Essential Foundation
Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation (New Version) ~ Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version)


Real Techniques Essential Foundation
Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation (New Version) ~ Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version)

Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation Brush (New Version $14.29) - The head is slightly thicker and firmer than the RT one. Also, it has a thin tip. The SK one is another one of my favorites. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation Brush (Old Version $14.29) - The head is thinner than the new version and it's the flimsiest of the bunch. Also, it's difficult to blend product into my skin without it streaking. The new version is far superior and I'm so glad that Sonia Kashuk revamped it. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Bottom Line: In terms of only application and disregarding physical appearance & price, my favorites are the Sonia Kashuk (new version), Real Techniques, and Royal & Langnickel BX-45. Coming in 2nd place is the EcoTools one. 3rd place goes to the Dior one and 4th place goes to the Chanel one. I love how dense and firm they all are and they blend product into my skin so easily, when used in a tapping motion!

Note: The Dior brush is available at Sephora and Nordstrom. The Chanel and Sigma brushes are available at Nordstrom. The EcoTools brush is available at Ulta, drugstore.com and Target. The Real Techniques brush is available at Ulta, drugstore.com and Target. The Royal & Langnickel brushes are available at their online store. The Sonia Kashuk brushes are available only at Target. The brush holder is sold separately and can be purchased here for $22.

What flat paddle foundation brush do you love and would recommend?

*This post contains affiliate links. The Sigma, Real Techniques & EcoTools brushes were given to me by one of my lovely friends. The Royal & Langnickel BX-45 & BX-40 brushes were won during one of their sweepstakes. The Royal & Langnickel C201 was given to me for review consideration. All of the other brushes that are mentioned above were purchased by me using my own funds, 

Review + Comparison: Real Techniques Brush Collection

Pros:

• synthetic bristles feel very soft
• bristles are not flimsy at all
• ideal for applying liquid/cream products
• no shedding
• affordable ($6-10 for the individual brushes and $18 for the set of 3, 4 & 5 brushes)
• no funky smell
• no dye bleeding
• 100% cruelty-free

Cons:

• handles are too wide to fit in my brush holder

Packaging: The Travel Essentials set and Core Collection set ($17.99 each) both come with a travel case, which I rarely use because I tend to overpack and bring alot more brushes than the case can hold. ^_^

The handle of the face brushes is flat on the bottom, so they can be stored standing upright. However, they don't store well in my brush holders because the handles are too thick. Also, if you're a long-time follower of my blog, then you know that I prefer my brushes to have a black matte handle and a nickel ferrule. They just look so much more professional and classy. However, I can get past the unconventional funky design of the Real Techniques brushes because they work so darn well. 

Real Techniques Blush Brush ($8.99) is made from synthetic material; therefore, it doesn't pack on powder products as well as natural bristles. When using it to apply setting powder, I find that I have to swirl the brush into the compact alot more than if I were to use a natural brush. However, it is a good brush for applying setting powder all over your face as long as you don't mind wasting product because it disperses product lightly and never leaves a cakey finish. That being said, It is also good for applying highly pigmented blushers, but don't apply too much pressure or else the brush will cover a huge portion of your face. Because the brush can be a little bit big for the cheek area if I'm not careful, I mostly reach for this brush when I'm applying bronzer to my decollete. (It measures 7.10 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Multi-Task Brush (comes in the Travel Essentials set $17.99) is ideal for applying setting powder and bronzer. The head of the brush is shorter than the RT blush brush and feels slightly denser, but it's still fluffy enough for applying setting powder all over your face without leaving a cakey finish. However, it is too big for the cheek area. The RT Blush brush is easier to control compared to the Multi-Task brush because it has a more tapered tip. However, I find other RT brushes to work better for blush application. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Buffing Brush (comes in the Core Collection set $17.99) is ideal for applying liquid and cream products, including blush, bronzer and foundation. The bristles are not as dense as the Sigma F80 and F82, but this is the reason why I prefer it over the Sigma brushes. It's just easier to work the product into my skin and the brush doesn't tug my skin. I also love using it for applying my Chanel cream bronzer. I just use a tapping motion and the product blends into my skin effortlessly. (It measures 6.30 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush ($8.99) is ideal for applying liquid and cream products, including blush, bronzer and foundation. The bristles are the densest out of all the RT brushes pictured in this post, but it is still flexible and glides product onto my skin effortlessly without ever tugging my skin. Because the RT Expert Face brush is slightly smaller and denser than the Buffing brush, it offers more control and is easier to reach underneath the eye area and around the temples. It is also excellent for contouring because it fits nicely in the hollows of the cheeks. (It measures 6.20 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Stippling Brush ($9.99) is ideal for applying liquid and cream products, including blush, bronzer and foundation. It's just as dense as the MAC 130 and denser than the MAC 187. The size is perfect for buffing in foundation because it covers a good portion of the face at a time, while still being able to reach into the small crevices of the face. It gets the job done quicker than the MAC 130 and offers better control than the MAC 187. Also, I love using it to stipple cream bronzers and blushers because it fits on my cheek area really well. This brush has become a staple in my makeup collection and I highly recommend it. (It measures 6.05 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Contour Brush (comes in the Core Collection set $17.99) is ideal for contouring, highlighting and applying concealer and setting powder underneath the eye area. It has a tapered tip and fits nicely on the hollows of my cheeks. Also, the bristles are not as stiff as the Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Pointed Foundation brush; therefore, it's much easier to work with and blends product better. I also love using the brush to apply setting powder underneath my eye because the head of the brush is the perfect size and it never leaves a cakey finish. (It measures 6.30 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Setting Brush ($7.99) is ideal for highlighting and applying concealer + setting powder underneath the eye area + around the small crevices of the face. It's not as dense as the RT Contour brush and it's smaller. However, for this reason, it offers better control and it's easier to reach the small crevices of the face, especially around the nose area. The base is pinched flat, but the tip is still round and wide enough for buffing in product. I love using it to apply my Dior Amber Diamond highlighter because the head of the brush fits nicely on top of my cheekbones, bridge of my nose, cupid's bow and chin. (It measures 6.10 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Essential Foundation Brush (comes in the Travel Essentials set $17.99) is ideal for applying concealer underneath the eye area. Flat paddle synthetic brushes are meant for applying liquid foundation in a painting motion; however, I rarely use this type of brush for its intended purpose because I find that other brushes (RT Buffing brush and RT Stippling brush) get the job done quicker. I mainly use the RT Essential Foundation brush for applying concealer underneath the eye area because the head of the brush is the perfect size for that kind of application. The bristles are dense and firm and provides excellent coverage without streaking when I apply the product in a tapping motion. I have over 10 flat paddle "foundation" brushes from various brands and the RT one is the one that I reach for the most. The size and the thickness of the brush head is just perfect! (It measures 6.25 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush (comes in the Core Collection set $17.99) is ideal for applying concealer around the small crevices of the face. It's too small for applying foundation to the entire face. Also, the bristles are not as dense or as firm as the RT Essential Foundation brush, so it doesn't blend product into the skin as easily. I find that the RT Essential Foundation brush blends effortlessly when I just use it in a tapping motion. I have to be more careful with the RT Pointed Foundation brush and not over apply the product or else it'll take forever to blend out. However, it does offer more precision and reaches into the small crevices around the face, such as the nose and mouth area, a little bit easier. (It measures 6.10 inches in total length.)

RT Domed Shadow Brush ~ Sigma E55 ~ MAC 239 ~ Sigma F70 ~ RT Detailer Brush

RT Domed Shadow Brush ~ Sigma E55 ~ MAC 239 ~ Sigma F70 ~ RT Detailer Brush

Real Techniques Domed Shadow Brush (comes in the Travel Essentials set $17.99) is ideal for applying and blending cream eyeshadows. The bristles are dense and firm and glides product onto the skin smoothly. The Sigma E55 and MAC 239 are smaller and thinner, while the RT brush is wider at the tip, which makes it excellent for blending. I use it all the time for blending out my base colors (Maybelline Color Tattoos). It's also great for highlighting underneath the brow bone. (It measures 5.65 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Detailer Brush (comes in the Core Collection set $17.99) is ideal for spot concealing, applying lip products, highlighting the inner corner of the eye and for detail work. It's not too stiff or too flimsy and it offers great precision. The size of the brush is perfect for shaping the lips and concealing blemishes. (It measures 5.5 inches in total length.)

Bottom Line: Even if you have over 200 brushes in your collection, I still recommend checking out the Real Techniques collection because they're different from other synthetic brushes. They are flexible without being flimsy and glide product onto the skin effortlessly without ever tugging the skin or leaving a cakey finish. Also, the bristles feel as soft as a bunny's bottom and they do not shed!

Note: The Real Techniques brushes can be purchased individually ($6-10) and they also come in sets ($18) at Target, Ulta and Drugstore.com.

Which Real Techniques brush have you tried?

*This post contains affiliate links. 

None of the products mentioned are sponsored.